Cons

Museum Quarter location is a bit removed from sights in the Old Center

Some complaints of heating and air-conditioning issues in rooms

Bottom Line

The Conservatorium Hotel delivers a true five-pearl experience in Amsterdam's residential Museum Quarter. It's housed in a 100-year-old former bank building, and the hotel's warm, modern design melds seamlessly with the structure; the stunning atrium lobby, for example, is industrial-chic, featuring wood, brick, and glass. The rooms are decorated in earthy neutrals and every detail was considered, from the placement of the electrical outlets to the reading lights by the bed to the high-tech controls for the lighting and blinds; some rooms have duplex layouts and exposed structural beams. Bathrooms are gorgeous, with rainfall showerheads, stone tile, LCD mirror TVs and micro cotton towels. The big, modern fitness center, stylish indoor pool, and lovely spa, all located below ground, are highlights. It's a premier choice for luxury travelers looking to trade a central location for added space and quiet.

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In the Museum Quarter, a quiet, residential neighborhood about a 15-minute drive from the Old Center

The Conservatorium Hotel is located in the Museum Quarter, within walking distance of the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijkmuseum (which translates to "national museum"). This quiet area has a residential feel, and is a tram or taxi ride away from popular tourist sights in the Old Center and Canal Ring (though it's possible to walk to the outer canals).

Marked by cobblestone roads, street-level canals and an abundance of coffee shops (which are most often known for something other than coffee), Amsterdam is both a quiet and lively city without the pretension of other European metropolises.

In the summer, visitors can enjoy live music at the Openluchttheater, an open-air venue at the Vondelpark, or the Roots Music Festival. The Gay Pride parade also takes place in the summer, and the city's many museums -- including the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank House, where Frank and her family hid from the Nazis during World War 2 -- are popular year-round. Visitors in April can experience Queen's Day, which celebrates the queen's birthday and includes a massive flea market, parties, and outdoor concerts.

Noordermarkt is known for its antiques, and Brouwerij de Prael is a recommended stop for beer enthusiasts. Fun dining spots include the famous sandwich spot Van Dobben, as well as Pancake Bakery, which offers more than 70 types of pancakes and a slew of other breakfast goods.

5-minute walk to Concertgebouw, Amsterdam's main concert hall

6-minute walk to the Rijkmuseum, which houses a world-class collection of art (including works by Dutch masters)

8-minute walk to Vondelpark and the open-air theater

11-minute walk to the Van Gogh Museum

15-minute walk to the Heineken Experience

13-minute drive or 20 minutes by foot and tram to the Old Center (and Red Light District)

10-minute drive or 19 minutes by foot and tram to the Anne Frank House